Staging can be great option for some listings,
however, we do not want our clients to think
that their homes must be "just so" or "perfectly staged". Your
own art work, personal collections, decor and imagination
often add a certain warmth and character that is irreplaceable.
Each situation should be evaluated accordingly, and that's
something we can figure out together.
Quick Tips For
Getting Your Home Ready For Sale
First
Impressions Are Lasting
Start with the exterior. Is your paint is good condition? Could
the shutters and doors use a new paint colour? The front door is
so important. Make sure it is in perfect condition. Install new
brass locks and door knobs if yours are shabby. Purchase a new
mailbox.
Regardless of the
Season, Keep up the Maintenance
Summer is so beautiful, especially with well cared for lawns. If
you don't want to do too many gardens, a large colourful potted
plant at the front door is fine. Keep the leaves raked in
autumn. In the winter, safety is paramount. Make sure driveway
and walkways are shovelled and salted. Remember to clear off the
back deck as well.
Does Your House Smell
Fresh and Clean?
Avoid using too many scents. Many people are allergic and others
think you are "trying to disguise a problem". The best smells
are natural ones: fresh baked cinnamon bread or supper slowing
baking in the oven.
Give Them Open Access
Make sure your entry or foyer is totally
uncluttered. Find a place for all those extra shoes and
sneakers. Avoid excess furniture in the entry, nothing to make
the space feel smaller.
It's Time De-Clutter
Go through all rooms in the house. Remove
extra objects and put them away. You will be packing soon
anyway! The most important rooms to address are the kitchen and
baths. They must be spotless and uncluttered.
Buyer's Focus on Kitchens
In the kitchen, take time to clean all your
cabinets and drawers. Buyers often open kitchen doors, drawers
and cabinets, so consider removing anything excess to create
extra space. You could store away some of the appliances
normally found on counter tops, or those that are rarely used.
Please remember to empty all trash containers before every showing!
Our Best Friends Are
Not Their Best Friends
Lets talk about pets. If there is kitty litter, remember to
replace it before every showing. For showings, consider removing
your pet from the home. Many people are apprehensive around
pets unfamiliar to them.
The Garage
Clean it out! You will be glad you did when moving day arrives!
Lights & Lighting
If the day is dark and dreary, a few well chosen lamps add
ambience. Lights going to basements should be left on for safety
reasons. If it's a night showing, be sure to leave your home
well lit at the front door.
Children's Rooms
With all that's going on with an upcoming move, no need to add
additional stress to your child. Do the minimal required in
these rooms - straightening up, making the bed and opening the
drapes is all that needed.
Final Thoughts...
There are often very
specific suggestions we will make that will help your house sell
faster and for more money. This may be something as simple as
replacing some worn carpet in designated areas, and the rewards
can be great. Our complimentary one hour staging consultation
will address any of these issues if they exist.
